Record crowds attend Real Festival 2018

A world-class event program, stunning outdoor location and sunny conditions on attracted a record crowd to Penrith’s third annual Real Festival over the weekend.

A world-class event program, stunning outdoor location and sunny conditions attracted a record crowd to Penrith's third annual Real Festival over the weekend.

More than 25,000 people attended the two-day event; a 13% increase on the previous year with 26% of attendees visiting from surrounding regions, across NSW and interstate.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said the figures are impressive, and a testament to the value of Real Festival to the local economy.

"Not only is this event providing a significant boost to a wide range of local businesses over the weekend, it is raising the city's profile as a destination and attracting visitors to the area which has long-term benefits for the region," Cr Fowler said.

The success of this weekend cements Real Festival as Penrith's premier community event, and an emerging highlight on Sydney's calendar of events.

Cr Fowler said Real Festival continues to grow and get better every year. This year's program was undoubtedly the best yet and it is wonderful to think that so many people, locals and visitors, got to experience it.

"I have no doubt that everyone who came this year will be back again next year, and I am confident we can once again exceed expectations with another fantastic event."

"Real Festival would not have been possible without our wonderful sponsors and I would like to thank Destination NSW, Busways, Seven News, The Western Weekender, Club Paceway and the Nepean Belle for their ongoing support."

Photo caption: Real Festival's incredible line up of free entertainment which included Erth's Dinosaur Zoo show, thrilled audiences on Friday and Saturday.